Time "talks" in the American culture and, for that matter, in many other cultures.【31】 it

says is crucial in our relations with others. Some societies take their promises to【32】 deadlines seriously and keep appointments, and they impose penalties for being late or not completing a task in the【33】time. In the United States, being late repeatedly for class in schools may lead to suspension. Late papers may【34】as much as 10 percent reduction in the grade, or even a failing grade.

Perhaps the most critical dimension in culture is the use of time. Each culture has its own concept of time. In Germanic cultures punctuality is a【35】of respect and politeness; being late is rude. Germans believe people should be【36】on time, neither too early, nor too late. Tothe Indonesian, time is an endless pool; why be【37】or hurry？ All cultures【38】their own time system for granted and believe other cultures operate with the【39】time frame.【40】, misunderstandings are inevitable. To function in a foreign country, we must know its time system.

(31)

A．That

B．What

C．Which

D．Whether